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Best Things To Do In Eden Prairie

When it comes to the best small cities — not just in Minnesota — but in America, Eden Prairie has been proud to consistently earn a spot in Money Magazine’s top 100 since 2006. But this year, the suburb got a bit of a surprise when they landed at No. 1, taking the title of the “Best Place to Live” on the 2010 list.

The editors of Money Magazine credited the city with its family-friendly appeal and incredible booming economy. While that’s definitely appealing, we thought we’d go a little further and find out what else makes this city so great.

Thanks to a combined effort of viewer submissions, newsroom input — and the trusted suggestions of my good friend, and EP resident, Michelle — we’ve put together a list of a few things in Eden Prairie worth checking out if you’re in the neighborhood.

After all, not just any city can call itself the best in the nation.

Santorini Taverna

Everything from the bright blue canopies to the ornate door handles screams Greek at Santorini Taverna. The Greek dining spot spent 14 great years in St. Louis Park before relocating to its Eden Prairie home. The restaurant is the place to get a taste of the Mediterranean, whether you’re looking for gyros or signature lamb chops. Check the website for weekend specials and live music.

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Winter Park

Say “Eden Prairie” to a sports fan and there’s an automatic association made to Winter Park. Known as the Mecca for all Vikings fans, Winter Park has served as the location for the team’s home offices, locker rooms and practice fields since the early 1980s. Named after Max Winter, one of the founders of the Vikings, this is the place to take a photo of the iconic Vikings ship, overlooking Interstate 494, or stalk a certain quarterback, fresh off a plane from Mississippi.

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Various Bike Paths and Trails

Eden Prairie has more than 125 miles of bike paths and walking trails throughout the city — so you can see why it’s difficult to pick just one. However, I will say that the trails surrounding Mitchell Lake — or any of the 17 surrounding lakes — are some of the best views in the city. Click on the link above for a complete map of the bike trails to start planning your route.

JJ’s Coffee Company and Wine Bar

With a large brick and stone fireplace welcoming customers, JJ’s Coffee Company sets the tone that warm goodness awaits. The interior is very modern, but comfy with leather-bound chairs and cozy booths with adjustable lighting. Stop in for a freshly-roasted — and local — custom-crafted cup of Joe in the morning and an array of specialty beers and wine at night.

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Bryant Lake Regional Park

The rolling hills of Bryant Lake Regional Park make it seem like an endless haven of green grass and gorgeous views. Tucked away near the shores of Bryant Lake, the park is removed enough from the city making it a great escape from the city buzz. During the summer, enjoy swimming along the beach, or try your hand on the 18-hole disc golf course.

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Bear Path Golf and Country Club

Inside the posh gated community of Bearpath (where a number of local celebrities have at one time or another called home), there’s an incredible 48,000 square foot clubhouse and 18-hole golf course designed by the legend of golf himself, Jack Nicklaus. The backdrop behind each hole offers spectacular views and provides a challenge for any golfer.

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Lion’s Tap

Sink your teeth into one of the famous juicy, handcrafted burgers at the Lion’s Tap, a place that’s the king of the jungle when it comes to taste. Located near Flying Cloud Airport, this local joint boasts some of the freshest burgers and best locally-brewed craft beers.

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Eden Prairie Art Center

Thanks to a former Eden Prairie resident’s incredible donation, the city now has a place for locals to create and be immersed in the arts. The Eden Prairie Art Center was built by a man named Roger Sampson, a former resident who wanted to create a community space for the arts. The center offers classes and programs for art-enthusiasts from toddlers to seniors.

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Redstone American Grill

Remember that previous statement about Winter Park and the Vikings? Well, if you want to catch your favorite players off the field — perhaps feasting on a carboload of sorts — Redstone American Grill is probably your best bet. This cozy, classy place may serve some of the Vikings’ best, but it’s the food and the ambiance that bring most of the regulars back for more.

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Kona Grill

Kona Grill is where Japan meets America. Combining a mix of flavors, from both Eastern and Western influences, Kona’s menu offers something for everyone, and then some. A full sushi bar boasts of fresh fish creations while the kitchen’s grill cooks up some signature entrees not to be missed. Kona Grill is a chain, but this being the only Minnesota location earns it a spot on the Eden Prairie Best Of.